Going smoke free

Stopping smoking and reducing exposure to passive smoking is the most effective way of reducing the risk of developing cancer, diabetes, heart and respiratory problems.

Smoking can also affect your mental health with anxiety and depression more common in long-term smokers.

The 4,000 chemicals in smoke also damage the skin, teeth, the immune system and put extra stress on the body during cancer treatment. If you continue to smoke during radiotherapy and chemotherapy it makes those treatments less effective and increases side effects, such as nausea, chest infection and mouth soreness.

Research has shown across a range of cancers that going smoke free will help improve fatigue levels, sleep, pain, nausea, help with treatment recovery and reduce the risk of developing new cancers. Here at The Christie, our smoking cessation team provides not only helpful advice and support, nicotine replacement therapy but also a range of stress management techniques.

Please note: The Christie's smoking cessation service is only available for all patients, carers and staff at The Christie.

For further information about our clinics and appointments, please do not hesitate to contact:

• The Christie Smoking Cessation Team on 073922 78408 or 0161 956 1215
• Smoking Cessation Service

Macmillan has more information online about stopping smoking, including how this will benefit your health and how to quit the habit.